Iran Closes Strait of Hormuz Only to Enemies, Friendly Nations Allowed to Pass

Iran has stated that the Strait of Hormuz is not entirely closed following the heated conflict in the Middle East. The Strait of Hormuz will only be closed to enemies.

“The Strait of Hormuz, from our perspective, is not entirely closed; this strait is only closed to enemies,” said Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, as reported by detikNews on Thursday (26/3/2026).

Araghchi emphasised that the strait will not be opened to enemies and their allies. Conversely, Iran has provided a safe route for friendly countries to pass through freely.

“There is no reason to allow our enemy ships and their allies to pass,” said Araghchi.

“Tehran’s armed forces have provided a safe route for ships from friendly countries,” added Araghchi.

The Strait of Hormuz, a strategic waterway for global energy supplies, has been affected by the ongoing war in the Middle East. Before the war broke out, around 20 million barrels of global oil typically crossed this important waterway every day.

As a result of the war, crossing activities in the Strait of Hormuz have been effectively limited since early March. This has triggered global disruptions, increasing shipping costs and pushing global oil prices higher.